What can we (HR Professional's) learn from Shri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa?
Jana Venkata Ramakrishna
Associate Vice President- Human Resources at Indian Hotels Company Limited
Shri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was a spiritual teacher and mystic who lived in India during the 19th century. While his teachings were primarily focused on spirituality and the pursuit of the divine, many of his teachings can be applied to other areas of life, including the field of human resources.
Here are a few of his teachings that may be particularly relevant for HR professionals:
Respect for diversity: Shri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa emphasized the importance of respecting all religions and spiritual paths. Similarly, in the workplace, it is important for HR professionals to respect the diversity of employees, including their backgrounds, beliefs, and values.
Servant leadership: Shri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa taught that true leaders are those who serve others selflessly. In the context of HR, this means that HR professionals should view themselves as servants of the organization and its employees, working to create a positive and supportive work environment.
Mindfulness: Shri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa emphasized the importance of mindfulness in spiritual practice, and this can also be applied to the workplace. HR professionals should strive to be present and attentive in their interactions with employees, actively listening to their concerns and needs.
Compassion: Shri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa taught that compassion is an essential quality for spiritual seekers. In the workplace, HR professionals should strive to be compassionate towards employees, recognizing their unique challenges and supporting them in their personal and professional development.
Teamwork: Shri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa emphasized the importance of working together towards a common goal. In the workplace, HR professionals should encourage teamwork and collaboration among employees, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
Overall, Ramakrishna's teachings emphasize the importance of respect, service, mindfulness, compassion, and teamwork, all of which can be applied to the field of human resources to create a more positive and supportive work environment..
Few Famous Quotes from Shri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa -
"The winds of grace are always blowing, but it is you who must raise your sails."
This quote emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and initiative, even in the face of difficult circumstances. HR professionals can apply this principle by encouraging employees to take ownership of their work and strive for personal growth and development.
"The best way to serve God is by serving humanity."
This quote highlights the importance of service and altruism. HR professionals can apply this principle by focusing on the needs of employees and creating a positive and supportive work environment that promotes their well-being and success.
"As long as I live, so long do I learn."
This quote emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and growth. HR professionals can apply this principle by encouraging employees to pursue ongoing education and training opportunities that will help them to develop new skills and knowledge.
"The greatest virtue is to speak the truth."
This quote emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity. HR professionals can apply this principle by fostering a culture of transparency and openness, where employees feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and concerns.
"The best way to control your mind is to control your breath."
This quote emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and self-awareness. HR professionals can apply this principle by encouraging employees to practice meditation or other mindfulness techniques, which can help to reduce stress and improve mental clarity and focus.